Heriberto Collazo

With much sorrow we mourn the loss and celebrate the life of Heriberto Collazo. Herb passed peacefully to be with the Lord on the afternoon of Monday, April 20th, 2026 at age 88. He was born on August 31st,1937 in Puerto Rico and moved to the Bronx, New York at age 14.

The oldest of four boys, Heriberto lived a life of determination, intelligence, exquisite elegance and caring for others. He graduated from The City College of New York and married his beloved wife Miltelina after meeting her while tutoring her in Geometry. Once she passed her class, Heriberto asked her out and the rest is history. They enjoyed 65 years of marriage and their loving bond was filled with laughter, friendship, and deep admiration for one another.

For most of his career Herb worked for the Internal Revenue Service as a Special Agent of Criminal (Intelligence) Investigation Division Department of Treasury until the age of 55 and then moved on to serve as a Special Agent Criminal Investigator of the New York State Organized Crime Task Force until his retirement at age 65.

A deeply religious and humble man. He always had his loved ones in his prayers and we are grateful for that. He was a proud and loving father to Lynne Witham (husband Mark) and Derek Collazo (wife Shay) and their accomplishments filled his heart. Herb was a constant support to his children and was always thrilled and appreciative of their talents and dreams.

Herb’s greatest joy in life came from being the adoring and devoted grandfather to his 5 grandchildren Hunter, Avery, Logan, Katherine and Dean. They were his shining stars and he loved being their “Papa”. He could happily sit for hours with one of them asleep on him when they were small, patiently read them stories and loved to talk to them and hear about their latest adventures. He constantly spoke of how amazing they were and cherished his time with them. Nothing made him happier than to have them with him to share snacks, stories and hugs. Herb was always kind and gentle with everyone around him, and especially so with his beloved grandkids.

Herb was also an animal lover and enjoyed being a babysitter to Lynne’s dog Osa, walking her during snowstorms, spoiling her with love and also praying for Osa as she herself went over the rainbow bridge. Heriberto will be remembered above all for his kindness, his humor, and his unwavering belief in the goodness of others. Herb had a gift for telling the best “Dad” jokes, often poking fun at himself while sharing affectionate laughter with his loved ones and friends. He was a passionate music lover, especially drawn to Spanish music, and his family enjoyed his smooth moves on the dance floor. He was an avid sports fan who deeply admired great players and their talent. Herb was immensely proud of his Puerto Rican heritage and held his extended family close to his heart.

Herb lived a long, wonderful life filled with simple pleasures and he will be greatly missed. All who knew Heriberto are better for it and are honored to have had him as part of their lives.

A private family service will be held to honor Heriberto, followed by interment at Valleau Cemetery in Ridgewood, N.J.

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